First Community Credit Union acquiring naming rights to SIUE arena

The largest corporate naming rights arrangement at SIUE will be formally announced Thursday when the arena at the Vadalabene Center will officially become First Community Arena.

First Community Credit Union and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will announce a $2.3 million, 10-year deal in ceremonies set for 11:30 a.m., the school said in a media advisory.

Chancellor Randy Pembrook will participate, the school said.

The initial term is for 10 years through June 30, 2029. One two-year extension is provided, making the potential end date June 30, 2031.

“This is a wonderful example of emerging community relationships,” said Randy Pembrook. “We thank First Community for their generosity, as well as their enthusiasm for higher education in general and SIUE specifically.”

First Community has more than 40 locations across the St. Louis metro area, including branches in Glen Carbon and seven other Illinois communities.

“We are extremely pleased to be in Illinois and growing our branch network there” said Glenn D. Barks, First Community chief executive officer, in a statement. “We truly believe that we have all the services families need for every stage of their lives so a partnership with SIUE makes perfect sense.”

SIU trustees approved the move at the July board meeting.